O’level exams: English, Mathematics compulsory for all students — FG

The Federal Government says English Language and Mathematics remain compulsory subjects for all secondary school students.

The Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo, made this known in a statement issued on Sunday, October 19, 2025.

Boriowo said the clarification was necessary following misconceptions surrounding the recently announced streamlining of admission requirements into tertiary institutions.

She quoted the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, to have emphasised that the reform does not exempt any student from registering or sitting for English and Mathematics during their O’Level examinations.

Alausa said the new policy introduces a more inclusive and flexible framework for tertiary admission, aimed at ensuring that capable students are not unfairly denied entry into higher institutions due to deficiencies in non-core subjects.

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The minister said: “It allows institutions to admit candidates into specific programmes where credit passes in either English or Mathematics may not be compulsory, while still mandating that all students register and sit for both subjects.

“This reform supports the federal government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development, broadening academic pathways and recognising diverse strengths among learners.”

Alausa described the move as a step toward realising the federal government’s vision of equitable access, inclusivity, and human capital development.

He added: “English and Mathematics remain vital tools for communication, reasoning, and lifelong learning.

“The adjustment affects only the admission criteria, not the requirement to take these subjects.”

Alausa further urged students, parents, and education stakeholders to rely solely on official communication channels for verified policy updates to avoid misinformation.

The Star